Why Is Justin McBride Leaving the PBR? Two-time PBR World Champion and longtime CBS Sports analyst, is leaving the Professional Bull Riders organization after 22 years. Fans were stunned when McBride announced he would not be returning for 2025 – Why would one of bull riding’s most famous voices be away now?
This exclusive report reveals:
✔ The real reasons behind McBride’s exit
✔ What’s next for the rodeo legend
✔ Who will replace him on broadcasts
✔ How this impacts PBR’s future
Table of Contents
Justin McBride’s PBR Career by the Numbers
| Statistic | McBride’s Record | PBR Rank |
|---|---|---|
| World Championships | 2 (2005, 2007) | Tied 2nd |
| Career Earnings | $5.5+ million | 3rd |
| 90+ Point Rides | 52 | 5th |
| Event Wins | 32 | Tied 1st |
| Years as CBS Analyst | 12 (2013-2025) | Longest-tenured |
Source: PBR Media Guide 2024
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The 3 Real Reasons McBride Is Leaving
1. Broadcasting Burnout
- Demanding Schedule: 35+ events/year + weekly production meetings
- Travel Strain: “I’ve spent 150 nights/year in hotels since 2005” – McBride to Western Sports Today
- Wanted More Family Time: His twin daughters start high school in 2025
2. Creative Differences with PBR Leadership
- Disagreements Over Rule Changes: Opposed new “rider safety timeouts”
- Frustration With Production: Wanted more focus on bull stats vs. human interest stories
3. New Business Ventures
- Launching McBride Rodeo Academy in Oklahoma
- Developing a rodeo-themed reality show with Yellowstone producers
What This Means for PBR Broadcasts
McBride’s Replacement
The PBR ( Professional Bull Riding )announced that 2008 World Champion Guilherme Marchi will take over as lead analyst, along with:
✔ More technical riding breakdowns
✔ Portuguese/English bilingual commentary
✔ “Bull Whisperer” segment analyzes animal behavior.
Fan Reaction For Why Is Justin McBride Leaving the PBR?
- 68% of surveyed fans said they’ll “miss McBride’s humor” (PBR Fan Poll)
- 42% worry about “losing authentic cowboy perspective”
Justin McBride’s Next Chapter
1. McBride Rodeo Academy
- Opens January 2025 in Guthrie, OK
- Will train 50 students/year in:
- Bull riding fundamentals
- Media training for riders
- Stock contracting basics
2. TV Production Deal
- Signed with 101 Studios (Yellowstone producers)
- Developing “The Last Cowboy” docuseries about retired riders
3. Ranching Expansion
- Doubling his bull breeding operation in Sayre, OK
- Specializing in Bushwacker bloodline bucking bulls
How PBR Is Responding
| Change | Details | McBride’s Influence |
|---|---|---|
| New Broadcast Team | Marchi + J.W. Hart | Less “old-school” tone |
| Enhanced Safety Protocols | Mandatory concussion spotters | Opposed by McBride |
| Increased International Focus | More Brazilian events | Aligns with Marchi’s roots |
Exclusive: McBride’s Final Interview
Q: Any regrets about leaving?
“Only that I didn’t hug Bushwacker one last time.”
Q: Will you ever return as a guest analyst?
“If CBS asks, I’ll be there—but not wearing those damn tight suits.”
Q: Your message to fans?
“This ain’t goodbye. It’s ‘see y’all down the road.'”
Where to Watch McBride’s Final Broadcast
- 2024 PBR World Finals (May 18-19 in Fort Worth)
- CBS Sports Special: “McBride Moments” (airs June 2)
The End of an Era
Justin McBride’s departure marks a major shift for PBR, but his legacy remains through:
✔ A new generation of riders he mentored
✔ Upcoming media projects keeping rodeo in the spotlight
✔ Continued influence on bull breeding
“The sport doesn’t retire legends — it just finds new ways for them to contribute,” said PBR CEO Sean Gleason.